Community Participation Research Articles

Lessons Learned From a Peer-Supported Differentiated Care and Nutritional Supplementation for People With TB in a Southern Indian State.

Two critical components of patient support systems for people with TB are regular counseling and locally managed nutritional support. As part of an ongoing differentiated TB care initiative called Tamil Nadu Kasanoi Erappila Thittam (meaning TB death-free initiative in Tamil, TN-KET) to reduce TB deaths, adults with TB with very severe undernutrition, respiratory insufficiency, or poor performance status are identified at diagnosis (triage-positive) and prioritized for referral, comprehensive clinical assessment, and inpatient care. Between January and June 2023, in 6 districts, a pilot exercise was conducted in which trained TB survivors, known as TB champions, provided baseline counseling and additional counseling (if required) to triage-positive people with TB at diagnosis. Additionally, people with TB with severe undernutrition were prioritized for nutritional supplementation for at least 3 months. Among 652 people with TB who were triage-positive at diagnosis, the program staff shared details of 145 (22%), and all were counseled by TB champions (baseline counseling). Program staff identified 74 (11%) triage-positive people with TB who required additional counseling (i.e., those refusing referral or admission or continued admission), and 71 (96%) were counseled by TB champions. Among these, 54 (76%) were admitted or readmitted and successfully discharged. In addition, among 1,042 people with TB with severe undernutrition, program staff shared details of 390 (38%), of which 60% received nutritional supplementation through the efforts of TB champions. We conclude that TB champions were able to provide quality and timely peer support through direct counseling and by mobilizing local resources for nutritional support. The engagement of TB champions can be further strengthened by establishing robust coordination mechanisms with the TB program. Lessons from this pilot will contribute to the Tamil Nadu State TB Cell's plans to expand the role of TB champions and enhance community participation to end TB in India.

Legal Policy Strategies for Preserving Tropical Forests in IKN in the Context of Climate Change

This study examines legal policy strategies to preserve tropical forest sustainability in the National Capital City (IKN) in the context of climate change. Indonesian tropical forests, particularly in East Kalimantan as the location of IKN, play a crucial role in global climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. However, challenges such as deforestation, forest degradation, and the impacts of climate change necessitate effective policy responses. The research utilizes a literature review method to analyze existing regulations and policies, as well as evaluate implementation and challenges faced. Findings highlight the need for strengthened law enforcement, increased transparency, and the integration of climate change issues into forest policies. Recommendations include cross-sector collaboration and enhanced community participation in forest management in IKN.

Implementasi Pengembangan Kelembagaan dalam Meningkatkan Kualitas Sumber Daya Manusia melalui Program Probebaya di Kelurahan Mesjid Samarinda Seberang

The purpose of the pro risk program is In general, so that the problems faced by the community are handled more quickly, through the implementation of the Development and Empowerment Program it is expected to be on target and on time, improve community welfare, increase community participation in development. This study uses qualitative descriptive methods with primary and secondary data, as well as observation, interview, and documentation techniques. Research also shows that institutional training has a significant influence on human resource development. Institutional training programs in Samarinda have also helped in community empowerment, improving living standards, reducing inequality, and overcoming unemployment. Therefore, it is recommended that this program continue to be supported and developed to achieve sustainable development in the future. With the involvement of the Probebaya Program in improving the quality of Human Resource Improvement, it can be considered a positive value and make the Probebaya Program have a function and role in Institutional Improvement.

Effectiveness of Village Fund Utilization in Supporting Rural Development (Case Study of Punti Village, Soromandi Subdistrict, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara)

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the use of village funds in supporting the development of rural community empowerment and to analyze Community Involvement in the Management of the Village Fund Budget for the Development and Empowerment of Rural Communities in Punti Village, Soromandi District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The method used in this research is qualitative descriptive with data collection techniques through interviews, observation and documentation. Based on the analysis conducted, the utilization of village funds in Punti Village, Soromandi District, Bima Regency has shown high effectiveness in supporting rural development. The programs implemented, especially infrastructure development such as drainage and concrete rebates, have been in accordance with the priorities and needs of the community. This effectiveness can be seen from various aspects, including timeliness, cost calculation, measurement, choice making, thinking, order execution, and goal setting. Community participation was quite good in the planning stage through the village development planning meetings, although the involvement of women still needs to be improved. However, participation in the implementation and evaluation stages is still less than optimal. Nevertheless, the overall management of village funds has contributed positively to welfare improvement, infrastructure development, and community empowerment, including through cadre training and the development of village-owned enterprises. To maximize the benefits of village funds, it is necessary to increase community participation in all stages, especially in program implementation and evaluation, as well as to increase the involvement of women in decision-making.

Assessment of Community Participation in Forest Conservation in Ondo State, Nigeria

This study examines community participation in forest conservation in Ondo State, Nigeria, exploring the socio-economic dynamics and the effectiveness of decentralized forest management. Amidst escalating environmental degradation and forest depletion, this research highlights the critical role local communities’ play in the stewardship of forest reserves. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and field observations involving 200 households across multiple communities adjacent to forest reserves. The findings reveal a strong community willingness to engage in forest conservation, with a substantial proportion of respondents prepared to accept financial incentives to aid in conservation efforts. The study also uncovers a significant correlation between socioeconomic factors—such as income levels, educational attainment, and proximity to forests—and the willingness to participate in conservation initiatives. Despite the readiness to support forest preservation, the research identifies a glaring lack of awareness and involvement in existing forest conservation programs. It is recommended that enhanced community education on the benefits of forest conservation, the introduction of more robust economic incentives, increased community involvement in conservation decision-making, and the strengthening of legal frameworks to protect forest resources. These steps are essential for sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation in the area, which could serve as a model for similar regions globally.

PEMBERIAN EDUKASI TENTANG PENTINGNYA IMUNISASI LENGKAP DAN VAKSINASI POLIO

Immunization is a public health intervention that is very effective in preventing serious infectious diseases. In this context, polio vaccination plays an important role because polio can cause permanent paralysis and even death. The aim of this activity is to increase knowledge, awareness and community participation about the importance of immunization, especially polio vaccination, through providing accurate information and eliminating misinformation, as well as facilitating access to health services. Method: This service begins with preparation and includes monitoring and evaluation. Where the interventions carried out are counseling, distribution of educational materials, door-to-door visits, and mobile posyandu to the community. Results: there has been a significant increase in knowledge, awareness and positive attitudes of the community towards immunization and polio vaccination. The evaluation showed a 45% increase in knowledge and a supportive change in attitudes. Conclusion: Service activities in Bandar Kidul Village succeeded in increasing the community's knowledge and positive attitudes towards polio immunization. This activity could be a model for other regions and is recommended to be held regularly with structured material and developed for maternal and child health (KIA).

Participation of Local Communities in the Management of Post-Mine Areas in Cities

The management of post-mining reservoirs as part of urban blue infrastructure is linked to the implementation of pro-environmental policies at different levels (from local–municipal to European). Local communities, as beneficiaries of measures taken by city authorities, recognise the need for active participation in decision-making processes. They engage in making decisions on blue spaces in urban areas. These include public and natural watercourses and their surroundings, but also water-filled basins of various origins, including post-mining pits. This paper strives to answer how local communities are involved in activities for developing and managing post-mine areas filled with water within city limits. The methods used (including field observation, spatial analyses, and desk research) allowed us to classify post-mining pits according to their functions and the degree of social participation in their development process. The analysed post-mining pits were divided into three groups. The first group consisted of pit reservoirs transformed with the participation of local inhabitants into recreational grounds. The second comprised reservoirs transformed under local zoning plans (with residents consulted) expected to ultimately prop up the city’s green infrastructure. In turn, the third group consists of quasi-natural reservoirs deemed natural enclaves by city residents. The environmental analysis showed that pits were naturalised. One of them was subject to legal protection on account of biodiversity. Post-mine areas in Bydgoszcz play an important environmental role, and some are integral recreational sites, e.g., the Balaton reservoir. They materially affect the inhabitants’ daily contact with nature, which improves life quality.

Peningkatan Ketaggapan Warga Pesisir Terhadap Bencana Banjir Rob : Warga Tangguh Bencana

Introduction: Unexpectedly high sea water can cause flooding which can damage, threaten lives and endanger the community, especially residents who live close to the shoreline or coastline. Objective: increase the response capacity of coastal residents to tidal flood disasters. Method: conducting outreach and simulating tidal flood disasters. Results: The average posttest score reached 17.5 out of a maximum score of 20, indicating the success of counseling in increasing respondents' knowledge and preparedness. Conclusion: Increasing community understanding, as reflected in a high average posttest score, can make a significant contribution to increasing community preparedness and adaptation to the risk of tidal floods. Furthermore, efforts are needed to maintain this positive momentum through sustainable programs, collaboration with related parties, and strengthening community participation in mitigation efforts.

Assessing the extent of community participation in co-management of natural resources at Vwaza Wildlife Reserve in Malawi: an integrated approach

Assessing the extent of community participation in co-management of natural resources at Vwaza Wildlife Reserve in Malawi: an integrated approach

Harnessing Nature's Power to Cleanse Water Bodies through Phytoremediation of Aquatic Plants

The use of plants to remove, detoxify, or immobilize environmental contaminants, a process known as phytoremediation, is an emerging field with significant potential for the sustainable and economical treatment of polluted water bodies. Aquatic plants are uniquely suited for this purpose due to their inherent capabilities to uptake and metabolize a diverse range of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and organic compounds. Although the method does present challenges, including the length of time for effective cleanup and potential toxin bioaccumulation, innovative advancements in fields like genetic engineering and integrated remediation techniques offer promising avenues to overcome these hurdles. Additionally, the function of phytoremediation in carbon sequestration, paired with potential commercial uses, underscores its role as an essential tool for sustainable environmental stewardship. Therefore, it's crucial to continue research, encourage policy backing, and foster community participation to fully exploit the benefits of phytoremediation in aquatic settings.

Menumbuhkan Jiwa Kewirausahaan dalam Memanfaatkan Potensi Tanaman Enceng Gondok (Pemberdayaan Masyarakat di Desa Kesongo, Kab. Semarang)

In this community service activity, efforts have been made to mobilize and empower the community through Bembo Art as a motivator and facilitator. However, many people still lack the level of participation required to become independent entrepreneurs to achieve prosperity. This lack of community participation is caused by several factors, namely: firstly, many people lack awareness of community empowerment activities; secondly, people are unable to balance empowerment activities with their daily work. On the other hand, some people who have been mobilized in these empowerment activities acknowledge that they have gained a lot of knowledge after participating in them. Therefore, the willingness to participate is not in vain in order to improve their standard of living both now and in the future.

The Role of Apparatus Competence, Community Participation and Control Systems on Village Fund Financial Accountability

This study is associative research, which aims to analyze, identify and explain the role of apparatus compe-tency, community participation and control systems on financial accountability of village funds in Mam-beramo Raya Regency. The amount of data used in the research was 84 respondents or 70.00% of the total population is 120 consisting of village officials, community leaders and stakeholders in the Greater Mam-beramo Regency environment, with a sampling technique using the Simple Random Sampling type Proba-bility Sampling technique. The main data source for this research was obtained through distributing ques-tionnaires to all respondents. The statistical method used to test the hypothesis is multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS. Based on partial and simultaneous test results, it was found that apparatus, community participation and control systems had a positive and significant effect on financial accountability of village funds in Mamberamo Raya Regency. This study not only highlights the dynamics within the Mamberamo Raya District Government but also the efforts of the Greater Mamberamo District Government to increase efficiency, transparency and accountability in managing village funds, as well as improving the perfor-mance of village officials.

Project Integration Management and Performance of National Housing Corporation Projects in Kenya with the Moderating Effect of Community Participation

Project Integration Management and Performance of National Housing Corporation Projects in Kenya with the Moderating Effect of Community Participation

Zakat Maal Management and Regulation Practices: Evidence from Malaysia, Turki and Indonesia

This research investigates the management and regulatory practices of zakat maal (wealth tax) in Malaysia, Turkey, and Indonesia, aiming to provide a comparative analysis grounded in empirical data. Methodologically, the study employs a comparative qualitative analysis based on secondary data from academic literature, government reports, and institutional publications. The results show, first, Malaysia employs a centralized and technologically integrated approach, ensuring transparency and efficiency in zakat collection and distribution. In contrast, Turkey adopts a decentralized model driven by non-governmental organizations and community participation, fostering flexibility but posing challenges in standardization and oversight. Indonesia's hybrid model combines governmental oversight with private sector involvement, aiming to balance regulatory control with local adaptability, yet needs help in coordination and public trust. Second, the policy enhancements such as improved coordination mechanisms, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and enhanced public awareness to optimize Zakat's role in poverty alleviation and social welfare across Malaysia, Turkey, and Indonesia. This research contributes to the broader discourse on Islamic finance and social policy by providing nuanced insights into zakat management practices, offering valuable implications for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars interested in enhancing zakat efficacy globally.

Low Carbon Development Strategy in the Rambat Menduyung Mangrove Forest Area of West Bangka

Indonesia is committed to reducing carbon emissions through low-carbon development. Mangrove ecosystems have a high carbon storage value that can support this development. There is a problem of high mangrove degradation caused by economic activities. One of the sectors causing mangrove degradation is the mining sector in the province of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung. Low-carbon development strategies in mangrove areas are needed to support the increase of sustainable economic activities such as capture fisheries, aquaculture, and mangrove conservation. The objective of this research is to calculate the potential value of sustainable economic activities and develop a low-carbon development strategy in the Rambat Menduyung Mangrove Area. The methods used in this research are economic benefit analysis, benefit transfer analysis of carbon emission factors, and strategy analysis using interpretative structural modeling with Exsimpro software. The results of research suggest that potential economic activities that support low carbon development in mangrove areas, namely mangrove conservation, capture of marine biota, and blood clam production, produce economic benefits of IDR105,723,552,069/year. Prioritizing low-carbon development strategies by improving protection and law enforcement policies and increasing institutional capacity and community participation supported by adequate infrastructure from stakeholders, namely DKP West Bangka, KPHP Rambat Menduyung, and Belo Laut Village Government.

Low Carbon Development Strategy in the Rambat Menduyung Mangrove Forest Area of West Bangka

Indonesia is committed to reducing carbon emissions through low-carbon development. Mangrove ecosystems have a high carbon storage value that can support this development. There is a problem of high mangrove degradation caused by economic activities. One of the sectors causing mangrove degradation is the mining sector in the province of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung. Low-carbon development strategies in mangrove areas are needed to support the increase of sustainable economic activities such as capture fisheries, aquaculture, and mangrove conservation. The objective of this research is to calculate the potential value of sustainable economic activities and develop a low-carbon development strategy in the Rambat Menduyung Mangrove Area. The methods used in this research are economic benefit analysis, benefit transfer analysis of carbon emission factors, and strategy analysis using interpretative structural modeling with Exsimpro software. The results of research suggest that potential economic activities that support low carbon development in mangrove areas, namely mangrove conservation, capture of marine biota, and blood clam production, produce economic benefits of IDR105,723,552,069/year. Prioritizing low-carbon development strategies by improving protection and law enforcement policies and increasing institutional capacity and community participation supported by adequate infrastructure from stakeholders, namely DKP West Bangka, KPHP Rambat Menduyung, and Belo Laut Village Government.

Empowering Hearing-Impaired Learners for Digital Citizenship: A Thai MOOC-Based Design Thinking Approach

In today's technology-driven world, digital citizenship is vital in fostering responsible technology use and essential skills for learning, problem-solving, and community participation. However, a significant focus emerges within digital citizenship—empowering individuals with disabilities. This research addresses this crucial area by spearheading the creation of a specialized Thai Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) meticulously designed for hearing-impaired learners. The core objective is to equip these individuals with indispensable digital citizenship skills for seamless integration and active engagement in digital environments. The study progresses through three key phases. Phase 1 involves crafting the MOOC course to meet the needs of hearing-impaired individuals. Phase 2 develops a course on the Thai MOOC platform, using the MOOC-based Design Thinking Model and universal design learning principles. Phase 3 assesses 20 hearing-impaired learners in the "Utilizing Online Media as Digital Citizenship Course." The research reveals two significant outcomes, highlighting the course's impact. First, an evaluation of digital media quality and learning activities was conducted by five experts with 15 to 30 years of experience in the field, the result was an impressive performance rating of 4.56 on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating the course's high suitability for hearing-impaired learners. Such findings validate the precise alignment of the course with its intended objectives. Second, the outcomes of learning achievement tests on the Thai MOOC platform involving 20 high school hearing-impaired learners revealed that 15 learners scored above 70 (passing), representing 75%. The average post-test score was higher than the pre-test, with an average score of 72.05 points. These results demonstrate the course's effectiveness in improving learning outcomes and meeting predetermined criteria, while also indicating that adopting the MOOC-based Design Thinking model has led to the creation of high-quality media that delivers tangible results for hearing-impaired individuals. This research contributes to the eLearning field by addressing the specific needs of hearing-impaired individuals in digital citizenship education through tailored online learning courses designed to bridge existing gaps.

Culturally Local Perspectives Are Imperative to Scientific Excellence and Health Equity in Eating Disorders Research: Commentary on Monocello et al. (2024).

This commentary discusses a principal contribution of Monocello et al.'s paper presenting a cultural models approach to body fatness perceptions, which provides a rigorous and systematic means of identifying analytic categories that are locally meaningful, in contrast to categories derived from a solely universalizing perspective. In situating their work within an underrepresented population in eating disorders research-young men in South Korea-the authors step beyond the constraints of a universalizing, or etic, framework for probing how body dissatisfaction relates to eating disorder risk. The value of an alternative analytic framework, based on a culturally local, or emic, perspective on how bodies are perceived is demonstrated through the use of a cultural models approach exploring the relationship between culturally defined conceptualizations of body image and eating disorder risk. Understanding such relationships and the meanings attributed to the myriad aspects of body image through locally grounded frameworks provides an essential tool for investigators and clinicians to better understand the lived experience of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating, and also to inform more culturally salient approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. An emic approach that centers local perspectives and priorities also facilitates participation of communities underrepresented in research in knowledge production.

Healthcare workers’ views on decentralized primary health care management in Lesotho: a qualitative study

BackgroundLesotho experienced high rates of maternal (566/100,000 live births) and under-five mortality (72.9/1000 live births). A 2013 national assessment found centralized healthcare management in Ministry of Health led to fragmented, ineffective district health team management. Launched in 2014 through collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Partners In Health, Lesotho’s Primary Health Care Reform (LPHCR) aimed to improve service quality and quantity by decentralizing healthcare management to the district level. We conducted a qualitative study to explore health workers’ perceptions regarding the effectiveness of LPHCR in enhancing the primary health care system.MethodsWe conducted 21 semi-structured key informant interviews (KII) with healthcare workers and Ministry of Health officials purposively sampled from various levels of Lesotho’s health system, including the central Ministry of Health, district health management teams, health centers, and community health worker programs in four pilot districts of the LPHCR initiative. The World Health Organization’s health systems building blocks framework was used to guide data collection and analysis. Interviews assessed health care workers’ perspectives on the impact of the LPHCR initiative on the six-health system building blocks: service delivery, health information systems, access to essential medicines, health workforce, financing, and leadership/governance. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis.ResultsParticipants described benefits of decentralization, including improved efficiency in service delivery, enhanced accountability and responsiveness, increased community participation, improved data availability, and better resource allocation. Participants highlighted how the reform resulted in more efficient procurement and distribution processes and increased recognition and status in part due to the empowerment of district health management teams. However, participants also identified limited decentralization of financial decision-making and encountered barriers to successful implementation, such as staff shortages, inadequate management of the village health worker program, and a lack of clear communication regarding autonomy in utilizing and mobilizing donor funds.ConclusionOur study findings indicate that the implementation of decentralized primary health care management in Lesotho was associated a positive impact on health system building blocks related to primary health care. However, it is crucial to address the implementation challenges identified by healthcare workers to optimize the benefits of decentralized healthcare management.

Participatory Communication in Rural Data Collection (Case: Data Desa Presisi Program in Watunohu District)

The Precision Village Data (DDP) Program is a program that emphasizes the importance of village community participation in collecting their own data. In this program, residents are the subjects of collecting data, in other words, the DDP program emphasizes participatory communication in collecting data for sustainable development. This research aims to explore how the principles of participatory communication are related to the success of bottom-up village data collection in the DDP program. The research results show that participatory communication in the DDP program in Watunohu District is at a medium/marginal level where Functional Participation occurs. Furthermore, from the research results it is recommended that there is a need to increase the application of participatory communication principles so that the level of community participation can reach the Empowered Participation level.